Chapter 69: 将离第十五

Autumn, Hundred Phoenix Mountain hunting grounds.

A hunting party was when hundreds or thousands of cultivators selected a place known for evil spirits and demonic beasts, then competed within a set time to bag prey, each using their own skills. Hundred Phoenix Mountain stretched for miles, teeming with game, making it one of the three most famous hunting grounds, host to many large-scale hunts. Such grand events weren't just opportunities for clans great and small to participate, show their strength, and recruit talent; they were also a chance for rogue cultivators and rising stars to make a name for themselves.

Before Hundred Phoenix Mountain lay a wide plaza. Dozens of tall hunting observation terraces rose around it, packed with people, buzzing with excited whispers. The quietest, of course, was the highest and most ornate terrace. Most of those seated there were elderly notables and clan leaders' families. Maids in the back held parasols or large fans, while the ladies in front all held fans before their faces, gazing down at the hunting grounds below with great reserve.

However, when the Gusu Lan Sect's mounted formation appeared, that reserve from the Lan Clan couldn't hold.

In a night hunt, you didn't actually rely on horses to chase prey. But horsemanship was a required skill for young masters of prominent clans. On such a formal occasion, riding in on horseback wasn't just a symbol of etiquette; the mounted formation could create a grand, imposing spectacle—quite a sight. To put it bluntly, it was all about 'rules' and 'looking good.' Lan Xichen and Lan Wangji sat astride two snow-maned steeds, leading the Gusu Lan Sect's mounted formation forward at a steady pace. Both wore swords at their waists, bows on their backs. Their white robes and Blue Clan Forehead Bands flew together, transcendent as immortals, their pristine snow-white boots spotless—probably cleaner than other people's clothes. The Twin Jades of Lan truly resembled a pair of flawless, beautiful jades, carved from ice and snow. The moment they appeared, even the air seemed to become refreshingly pure. Many female cultivators were captivated. The more reserved ones merely lowered their fans, their postures becoming a bit more eager, while the bolder ones rushed to the edge of the observation terrace, throwing the flower buds and blossoms they'd prepared in advance. The sky instantly rained flowers. It was customary to throw flowers at handsome men and women to express admiration. The Gusu Lan Sect disciples, noble by clan and gifted by nature, were exceptionally good-looking and long accustomed to this. Lan Xichen and Lan Wangji had been used to it since they were thirteen. Both remained perfectly composed, nodding slightly toward the observation terrace in acknowledgment before continuing on without pause.

Suddenly, Lan Wangji raised a hand and caught a flower thrown from behind.

He looked back. Behind him, from the Yunmeng Jiang Clan's mounted formation that hadn't yet moved out, Jiang Cheng at the front clicked his tongue impatiently. Beside him, someone sat on a gleaming black-maned steed, elbow resting on the horse's head, looking off to the side as if nothing were wrong, chatting and laughing with two graceful female cultivators.

Seeing Lan Wangji rein in his horse, Lan Xichen asked, "Wangji, what is it?"

Lan Wangji said, "Wei Ying."

Only then did Wei Wuxian turn his face, looking surprised. "What? Hanguang-jun, are you calling me? What's up?"

Lan Wangji held up the flower. He looked utterly cold, his tone matching. "Was it you."

Wei Wuxian denied it immediately. "It wasn't me."

The two female cultivators beside him chimed in at once, "Don't believe him, it was him!"

Wei Wuxian said, "How can you wrong a good man like this? I'm angry!"

The two female cultivators giggled, tugged their reins, and galloped back to their own formation. Lan Wangji lowered his hand holding the flower and shook his head. Jiang Cheng said, "Zewu-jun, Hanguang-jun, my apologies. Please don't mind him."

Lan Xichen smiled. "It's fine. I thank Lord Wei on Wangji's behalf for the kind gesture of the flower."

After they rode slowly away, trailed by fragrant breezes and showers of petals, Jiang Cheng glanced at the colorful sea of handkerchiefs waving on the observation terrace and said to Wei Wuxian, "They're throwing them. Why are you throwing one too?"

Wei Wuxian said, "He's good-looking, can't I throw a couple?"

Jiang Cheng snorted in disdain. "How old are you? What status do you have to be playing this kind of trick?"

Wei Wuxian looked at him. "You want one too? There are plenty on the ground, I'll pick one for you?" He made as if to bend down. Jiang Cheng said, "Get lost!"

Right then, Jin Guangyao's voice rang out over the plaza. "Qinghe Nie Sect mounted formation entering!"

Nie Mingjue was extremely tall, imposing even when standing. On horseback, he had an oppressive, commanding presence that seemed to look down on the entire scene. The noise from the observation terrace instantly diminished. When men ranking on the clan leaderboard made their entrance, they were almost invariably pelted with a rain of flowers. Nie Mingjue, ranked seventh, was the exception. If Lan Wangji was cold as ice, frostier than snow, Nie Mingjue was cold with fire—as if he might blaze up in fury at any moment, making people even more wary of provoking him. So even though the girls' hearts were pounding wildly, their hands clenched around sweaty blossoms, they simply didn't dare throw them, afraid of angering him and having him slash the whole observation terrace down with one backhanded stroke. However, many male cultivators who admired the Red Blade Master cheered him on, their roars especially deafening. Beside Nie Mingjue, Nie Huaisang was dressed as exquisitely as ever today, saber hanging, pendants adorning him, lightly waving a paper fan. At first glance, he looked every bit the fine young master in a corrupt world. But everyone knew that saber of his would never see the light of day; he'd probably just wander around Hundred Phoenix Mountain later, enjoying the scenery.

After the Qinghe Nie Sect came the Yunmeng Jiang Clan.

Wei Wuxian and Jiang Cheng urged their horses forward. Instantly, another pelting rain of flowers came down, making Jiang Cheng's face darken, while Wei Wuxian basked in it, quite pleased, waving toward the highest observation terrace. The best seat on that terrace belonged to Madam Jin of the Lanling Jin Sect. Sitting beside her was Jiang Anli. Earlier, Madam Jin had been holding her hand, speaking to her with affectionate pity. Jiang Anli usually carried herself with a bland, unremarkable demeanor, eyes lowered and obedient. But seeing her two younger brothers greeting her, her face suddenly brightened. She put down her fan, said something shyly to Madam Jin, walked to the edge of the viewing stand, and threw two flowers down to them.

That throw used all her strength. For a moment, Wei Wuxian and Jiang Cheng worried she might fall. Seeing Jiang Anli steady herself, they relaxed, both raising hands to easily catch the flowers. They smiled faintly, tucked the pale purple blossoms at their chests, then continued on. Many women around cast envious glances at Jiang Anli. She lowered her head and returned to Madam Jin's side. Just then, a row of cultivators in white robes with gold patterns, wearing light armor, charged out on tall horses. The one leading the front, handsome and wearing protective armor, was naturally the clan leader, Jin Guangshan.

Madam Jin quickly patted Jiang Anli's shoulder, took her hand again, and pulled her to the edge of the viewing stand, pointing out the Lanling Jin Sect's mounted formation below.

Amidst the whinnies, one horse suddenly shot ahead, galloped a circle around the plaza, then reined in sharply. The rider's posture was dashing, his white robes like snow, his features even more dazzlingly handsome than the cinnabar dot between his brows. His bow-drawing stance was heroic and imposing, instantly whipping up a frenzy on the observation terrace. The man swept his gaze over the terrace, seemingly unintentionally. Though he tried hard to keep his face stern, a hint of pride leaked from the corners of his eyes and brows.

Wei Wuxian snorted, laughing himself half to death on horseback. "I really can't with him. He's like a peacock."

Jiang Cheng said, "Rein it in. Older Sister is watching from the observation terrace."

Wei Wuxian said, "Don't worry. As long as he doesn't make Shijie cry again, I can't be bothered with him. You shouldn't have brought her."

Jiang Cheng said, "The Lanling Jin Sect insisted. Couldn't refuse without losing face."

Wei Wuxian said, 'I bet it was Madam Jin who insisted. She'll definitely try to maneuver shijie and that Prince of the Realm together later.'

As he spoke, Jin Zixuan galloped his horse to the front of the archery range. This row of targets was a checkpoint before officially entering the mountain. Those joining the hunt had to hit one from a set distance to qualify. The target had seven rings, corresponding to seven mountain paths for entry. The closer the arrow landed to the bullseye, the more advantageous the corresponding path. Jin Zixuan didn't slow his speed at all. He drew an arrow from behind, pulled the bow, and shot—right into the bullseye. Cheers erupted from all sides of the observation terrace.

Seeing Jin Zixuan steal the spotlight, Wei Wuxian and Jiang Cheng's faces showed little reaction. Suddenly, a heavy snort came from nearby. Someone said loudly, "If anyone here isn't convinced, come try and see if you can shoot better than Zixuan!"

This man was tall and handsome, with slightly dark skin and a booming voice—Jin Guangshan's nephew, Jin Zixuan's cousin of the same generation, Jin Zixun. Back when Jinlin Pavilion held its flower banquet, Wei Wuxian had quarreled with Jin Zixuan. Jin Zixun held a grudge and was now here to provoke. Wei Wuxian smiled faintly. Seeing him not respond, Jin Zixun looked pleased. When the Yunmeng Jiang Clan's mounted formation also reached the front of the archery range, Wei Wuxian said to the Twin Jades of Lan, who were testing their bows on horseback, 'Lan Zhan, do me a favor?'

Lan Wangji swept a glance at him and said nothing. Jiang Cheng said, "What are you up to now?"

Lan Wangji said, "What is it."

Wei Wuxian said, "Lend me your Blue Clan Forehead Band?"

Hearing this, Lan Wangji immediately withdrew his gaze, no longer looking at him. Lan Xichen, however, laughed and said, "Lord Wei, you may not know…"

But Lan Wangji said, "Elder Brother, no need to explain."

Lan Xichen said, "Very well."

Jiang Cheng practically wanted to slap Wei Wuxian off his horse. This guy clearly knew Lan Wangji definitely wouldn't lend it, yet he still had to ask—utterly stirring up trouble for no reason. If not for the occasion, he swore he'd do it. He said, "What do you need a Blue Clan Forehead Band for? Hanging yourself? I'll lend you a belt, no thanks needed."

Wei Wuxian, while unwinding the black band from his wrist guard, said, "Keep your belt. If I can't have the Blue Clan Forehead Band, I don't want your thing either."

Jiang Cheng said, "You—"

Before he finished, Wei Wuxian swiftly tied the black band over his eyes, nocked an arrow, drew the bow, released—bullseye!

This series of movements flowed like clouds and water, swift as lightning. Others didn't even react to what he was about to do, didn't clearly see his actions, before the bullseye was pierced clean through. After a moment of silence, thunderous cheers erupted from all directions, even more frenzied than those for Jin Zixuan.

Wei Wuxian's lips curved slightly. He twirled the long bow in his hand a couple times, then tossed it back. Over there, Jin Zixun, seeing him steal even more spotlight than the Lanling Jin Sect, snorted heavily, his face and heart sour. He added, "That's just the opening shot, all flashy tricks. You're blindfolded now—think you can keep it on the whole hunt? We'll see the real deal on Hundred Phoenix Mountain, decide the winner!"

Wei Wuxian said, "Sure?"

Jin Zixun waved a hand and ordered, "Move out!"

His subordinate cultivators urged their horses forward in a fierce charge, wanting to be first to rush in, seize the advantage, and quickly bag all the high-grade prey. Jin Guangshan, seeing his own mounted formation so well-trained, looked quite pleased. Noticing Wei Wuxian and Jiang Cheng still sitting on their horses, he smiled and said, "Clan Leader Jiang, Lord Wei, what's the matter? Not entering the mountain yet? Careful, Zixun will snatch all the prey."

Wei Wuxian said, "No rush. He can't snatch them."

Everyone else was taken aback. Jin Guangshan was pondering what "can't snatch them" meant when he saw Wei Wuxian swing down from his horse and say to Jiang Cheng, "You go ahead."

Jiang Cheng said, "Take it easy. Enough is enough."

Wei Wuxian waved a hand. Jiang Cheng tugged the reins and led the Yunmeng Jiang Clan contingent galloping away.

Wei Wuxian, blindfolded, hands behind his back, walked unhurriedly toward the Hundred Phoenix Mountain path, as if he weren't there to participate in a hunt, but strolling leisurely in his own backyard.

People wondered—was he really planning to keep the blindfold on for the entire night hunt? How could he hunt like that?

They exchanged glances, ultimately deciding it was none of their business, happy to watch the show, and each set off.

Wei Wuxian walked alone for a long time before finally finding a spot deep in Hundred Phoenix Mountain perfectly suited for resting.

An extremely thick branch, growing sideways from an even thicker trunk, blocked his path. Wei Wuxian patted the wrinkled bark a couple times, found it quite solid, and lightly leaped up.

The clamor from the observation terrace was long cut off beyond the forest. Wei Wuxian leaned against the tree, eyes narrowed beneath the black cloth. Sunlight filtered through gaps in the leaves, spilling onto his face.

He raised Chenqing to his lips, blew, fingers lightly stroking the holes. A clear, piercing flute note soared toward the sky like a bird, carrying far and long through the mountain forest.

Wei Wuxian dangled one leg as he played, gently swinging it. The tip of his boot brushed the wild grass below, not minding that it got damp from the morning dew on the green blades.

When the tune ended, Wei Wuxian folded his arms, shifting to a more comfortable, relaxed position against the tree. The flute tucked into his lapel, that flower still pinned at his chest, emitting a faint, cool fragrance.

He sat for who knows how long, long enough that he was nearly asleep, when he suddenly stirred, waking up.

Someone was approaching.

But this person carried no killing intent, so he remained lazily slumped against the tree, not bothering to get up, not even bothering to remove the blindfold, just tilting his head slightly.

After a while, hearing no speech from the other, Wei Wuxian couldn't help speaking up. "Are you here for the hunt?"

No response.

Wei Wuxian said, "You won't find anything to hunt around me."

The other still didn't utter a word, but took a few steps closer.

Wei Wuxian perked up a bit. Ordinary cultivators were somewhat wary of him, not daring to get too close even in crowds, let alone alone together, and this close at that. If not for the complete lack of killing intent, Wei Wuxian would really think the other meant harm. He straightened up slightly, turning his head toward where the other stood, lips curving into a slight smile. He was about to say something when he was suddenly shoved hard.

Wei Wuxian was shoved back against the tree. His right hand moved to tear off the blindfold but was immediately seized by the newcomer's wrist. The grip was strong—he struggled but couldn't break free. Still no killing intent. Wei Wuxian's left sleeve twitched, about to shake out a talisman, but the other detected his intent and likewise captured that hand, pressing both his hands against the tree, movements extremely forceful. Wei Wuxian lifted a foot to kick out, then suddenly felt a warmth on his lips. He froze on the spot.

The sensation was unfamiliar and strange, damp and warm. Wei Wuxian's mind went completely blank at first, utterly failing to grasp what was happening. By the time he realized, he was shocked.

This person was gripping his wrists, pinning him against the tree, and kissing him.

He struggled fiercely, trying to break free and tear off the blindfold, but one struggle didn't break the hold. He intended to move again, but suddenly stopped himself.

The person kissing him seemed to be trembling slightly.

Wei Wuxian instantly couldn't struggle anymore.

He thought: 'This girl's pretty strong, by the looks of it—but scared and shy too? Look how tense she is.' Otherwise she wouldn't have ambushed him now; she must have worked up enormous courage to do such a thing. And the other person's cultivation seemed far from weak, which only meant her pride would be that much stronger. If he rashly tore off the black band and got a look at her, how mortified, how humiliated would this girl be?

Four thin lips tossed and turned, cautious, reluctant to part. Wei Wuxian hadn't yet decided what to do when those lingering, tangled lips suddenly turned fierce. Wei Wuxian's teeth weren't clenched tight enough; the other invaded, leaving him utterly defenseless. He felt breathless, tried to turn his head away, but the other pinched his face, forcing it back. Amidst the tangle of lips and tongue, he grew dizzy too. Only when the other bit his lower lip, lingered a moment, then reluctantly pulled away did he barely regain his senses.

Wei Wuxian was kissed until his whole body went soft. He leaned against the tree for a while before some strength returned to his arms.

He raised a hand and yanked off the blindfold. The sudden sunlight stung his eyes. He managed to open them. The surroundings were empty—shrubs, old trees, wild grass, withered vines. Where was any second person?

Wei Wuxian still felt dazed. He sat on the branch a moment, then jumped down. His feet actually felt weak, even dizzy.

He quickly steadied himself against the tree trunk, inwardly cursing his uselessness—kissed until his legs went weak and he couldn't stand steady. He looked around—not a trace of anyone. That scene just now seemed like an absurd, sensual daydream, making Wei Wuxian think of those legends about mountain spirits and ghosts.

But he was certain it wasn't any mountain spirit or ghost. It had to be a person.

Recalling the sensation just now, a vague, elusive itch crept right to the tip of his heart. Wei Wuxian raised his right hand to his chest, only to find the flower that had been pinned there was gone.

He searched the ground. Nothing. It couldn't have just vanished into thin air.

Wei Wuxian stood dazed for a while, unconsciously touching his lips. After a long moment, he managed to squeeze out, 'Outrageous… That was mine…'

After searching nearby and finding no one, Wei Wuxian was torn between laughter and tears. Knowing the other was likely deliberately hiding and wouldn't come out again, he gave up looking and wandered aimlessly through the forest. After walking a while, he suddenly heard a heavy thud ahead. Wei Wuxian looked up. That tall, slender figure in white ahead—who else could it be but Lan Wangji?

But this person was clearly Lan Wangji, yet what he was doing didn't seem like Lan Wangji. When Wei Wuxian saw him, he was punching a tree, actually breaking it.

Wei Wuxian, puzzled, said, "Lan Zhan! What are you doing?"

The man whirled around. It was indeed Lan Wangji. But now, faint bloodshot veins were visible in his eyes, his expression downright terrifying. Wei Wuxian stared, startled. "Wow, scary."

Lan Wangji said sharply, "You go!"

Wei Wuxian said, "I just got here and you're telling me to leave? Do you hate me that much?"

Lan Wangji said, "Stay away from me!"

Apart from those few days at the bottom of the Butcher of Xuanwu Cave back then, this was the first time Wei Wuxian had seen Lan Wangji so distraught. But back then, the circumstances were special, understandable. Now, with everything fine, why was he like this again?

Wei Wuxian took a step back, putting some "distance" between them, but still pressed, "Hey, Lan Zhan, what's wrong with you? You okay? If something's wrong, say it?"

Lan Wangji avoided looking directly at him. He drew Bichen Sword. Several arcs of blue light flashed; the surrounding trees were swept by sword energy. Moments later, they crashed down.

He stood quietly holding the sword for a while, fingers tightening, knuckles whitening with force, as if slightly calmer. Suddenly he looked over again, staring fixedly at Wei Wuxian.

Wei Wuxian was utterly bewildered. His eyes had been covered by the black band for over an hour; sunlight was still a bit dazzling to him. After removing the blindfold, tears kept welling up in his eyes, his lips slightly swollen. Wei Wuxian felt his current appearance must be unsightly. Stared at like that, he couldn't help touching his chin. 'Lan Zhan?'

"…"

Lan Wangji said, "Nothing."

With a clang, he sheathed the sword and walked away. Wei Wuxian still felt something was off. After thinking, he followed just in case. He used a grappling move to seize his wrist; Lan Wangji sidestepped, looking at him coldly. Wei Wuxian said, "Don't look at me like that. I just want to see what's really wrong with you. You were too strange just now. Really not poisoned or had some accident during the night hunt?"

Lan Wangji said, "No."

Seeing his expression finally return to normal, probably truly fine, Wei Wuxian relaxed. Though still puzzled about what exactly happened, excessive interference wasn't good either. So he chatted idly for a bit. Lan Wangji didn't speak at first, but eventually replied with a few short words.

The lingering warmth and slight swelling on Wei Wuxian's lips kept reminding him: he'd just lost the first kiss he'd guarded for twenty years, been kissed until dizzy, and he didn't even know who the other person was or what they looked like. Outrageous.

Wei Wuxian sighed leisurely, then suddenly said, "Lan Zhan, have you ever kissed anyone?"

If Jiang Cheng were here, hearing him ask such a frivolous, pointless question, he'd definitely throw a punch at him immediately.

Lan Wangji also suddenly halted, his voice cold and slightly stiff. "Why do you ask."

Wei Wuxian smiled with an expression of understanding.

He narrowed his eyes. "No, right? I knew it. Just asking casually, no need to get so mad."

Lan Wangji said, "How do you know."

"Isn't that obvious?" Wei Wuxian said. "You go around with that face all day, who'd dare kiss you? And naturally, no one expects you to kiss anyone else either. I reckon your first kiss is gonna be guarded for life, hahahaha..."

He was smugly triumphant on his own. Lan Wangji's face was expressionless, but his mood seemed to have softened a little.

After he'd laughed his fill, Lan Wangji finally said, "And you."

Wei Wuxian raised an eyebrow. "Me? Do you even need to ask? I'm a seasoned veteran, of course."

The expression that had just softened on Lan Wangji's face was swiftly covered again by a layer of severe frost and snow.

Just then, Wei Wuxian suddenly hushed, saying, "Shh!"

His expression alert, he listened for something for a moment, then pulled Lan Wangji and dragged him behind a clump of bushes.

Lan Wangji didn't know what this move meant and was about to ask, when he saw Wei Wuxian staring intently in one direction. Following his gaze, he saw two figures, one in white and one in purple, walking slowly out from beneath the green clouds, one ahead of the other.

The one walking in front was tall and slender, handsome but imperious, with a dot of cinnabar between his brows. His white robes were trimmed with gold, and the ornaments all over him flashed with dazzling light. He strode with his head held high, his posture and expression the very picture of arrogance. It was Jin Zixuan. The person following behind him was small and thin, taking small, hurried steps, head bowed and silent, forming a stark contrast with Jin Zixuan ahead. It was Jiang Anli.

Wei Wuxian thought, 'I knew Madam Jin would make shijie and the Golden Peacock come out alone.'

Beside him, Lan Wangji saw his disdainful expression and said quietly, "What grievance do you have with Jin Zixuan?"

Wei Wuxian snorted.

If you asked why Wei Wuxian disliked Jin Zixuan so much, the history was long indeed.

Madam Yu and Jin Zixuan's mother, Madam Jin, were close friends from their youth. They had agreed long ago that if their future children were both sons, they would become sworn brothers; if both were daughters, they would become sworn sisters; if one was a boy and one a girl, they would definitely be married.

The two families' matriarchs were close, knew each other well, and were well-matched in status. This marriage alliance was truly perfect, and everyone praised it as a match made in heaven. Unfortunately, the parties involved didn't think so.

Jin Zixuan had been the center of attention since he was a child—fair-skinned and rosy-cheeked, with a dot of cinnabar between his brows. Add to that his noble birth and exceptional intelligence, and he was almost universally adored. Even as a child, he was full of pride. Madam Jin had brought him to Lotus Pavilion as a guest several times. Wei Wuxian and Jiang Cheng both disliked playing with him. Only Jiang Anli always wanted to feed him things she had made herself, though Jin Zixuan didn't pay her much attention either, which made Wei Wuxian and Jiang Cheng howl with anger several times.

Back when Wei Wuxian caused a huge scene at Cloud-Deep Unknown Place and ruined the marriage alliance between the Jin and Jiang families, he apologized to Jiang Anli after returning to Lotus Pavilion. Jiang Anli didn't say anything, just patted his head. Wei Wuxian and Jiang Cheng both thought the matter was over, and that breaking off the engagement was actually a happy outcome for everyone. Only later did they realize that Jiang Anli must have been very sad at that time.

In the middle of the Sun-Striking Campaign, the Yunmeng Jiang Clan went to the Langya area to support the Lanling Jin Sect. Due to a shortage of personnel, Jiang Anli went to the front lines with them.

Knowing her cultivation wasn't high, she did what she could, busy with the food for the cultivators. Wei Wuxian and Jiang Cheng had both disagreed at first, but Jiang Anli was skilled in cooking, she enjoyed doing it herself, got along well with people, didn't force herself or overwork herself, and it was safe. So they thought it wasn't bad.

Because conditions were harsh and the food was poor, Jiang Anli worried that her two younger brothers, being picky eaters, wouldn't eat well. So every day, in private, she would make two extra servings of soup for Wei Wuxian and Jiang Cheng. However, no one but herself knew there was a third serving, sent to Jin Zixuan, who was also in Langya at the time.

Jin Zixuan didn't know either. Although he liked that bowl of soup and was grateful for the sender's thoughtfulness, Jiang Anli never left her name. Little did she know, all this was seen by another low-ranking Female Cultivator. This Female Cultivator was a servant of the Lanling Jin Sect. Since her cultivation wasn't high either, she did the same work as Jiang Anli. She was good-looking, clever, and opportunistic. Out of curiosity, she followed Jiang Anli a few times and pretty much guessed what was going on. She quietly picked an opportunity, loitering outside Jin Zixuan's room after Jiang Anli delivered the soup and left, deliberately letting Jin Zixuan catch sight of her figure.

Jin Zixuan, having finally caught someone, of course pressed for answers. The woman was very clever—she didn't admit it, but instead denied it with a flushed face and vague words, making it sound like she had done it but didn't want Jin Zixuan to see through her heartfelt effort. So Jin Zixuan didn't force her to admit it. However, in his actions, he began to look favorably upon this Female Cultivator, treating her with considerable care and even promoting her from a servant to a guest cultivator. For a long time after that, Jiang Anli didn't notice anything amiss, until one day, after she delivered the soup, she was also bumped into by Jin Zixuan, who had returned temporarily to fetch a letter.

Naturally, Jin Zixuan questioned Jiang Anli about what she was doing in his room. Jiang Anli didn't dare say at first, but hearing his tone grow more and more suspicious as he questioned her, she had to confess the truth nervously.

However, this excuse had already been used by someone else.

It was easy to imagine Jin Zixuan's reaction upon hearing it this time.

So, he immediately "exposed" Jiang Anli's "lie." Jiang Anli never imagined such a thing would happen. She was never one to show off; hardly anyone even knew she was the daughter of the Yunmeng Jiang Clan. For a moment, she couldn't produce any strong evidence. She defended herself a few times, but the more she did, the colder her heart grew. In the end, Jin Zixuan threw a stiff sentence at her: "Don't think that just because you come from a prominent clan you can steal and trample on other people's feelings. Some people, even if their origins are humble, have character far nobler than the former. Please have some self-respect."

Jiang Anli finally understood several meanings from Jin Zixuan's words.

From the very beginning, Jin Zixuan didn't believe that a clan daughter like Jiang Anli, with her low cultivation, could do anything useful on the battlefield. To put it bluntly, he thought she was just finding an excuse to get close to him—she was just causing trouble.

Jin Zixuan had never understood her, nor had he ever thought to understand her. So he certainly wouldn't believe her.

After being spoken to like that by him, Jiang Anli stood where she was and suddenly began to cry loudly. When Wei Wuxian returned, what he saw was exactly this scene.

Although his shijie had a good temper, aside from the day the three of them were reunited after the fall of Lotus Pavilion, when they hugged and wailed together, she hadn't shed many tears in front of others, let alone cried this loudly, this aggrieved, in front of so many people. Wei Wuxian panicked completely. When he pressed her, Jiang Anli cried so hard she couldn't even speak clearly. Seeing Jin Zixuan standing dumbfounded to the side, he flew into a rage, thinking, 'It's that dog again!' He kicked out and started fighting Jin Zixuan. The two of them fought earth-shatteringly. Every cultivator in the base area came out to pull them apart. Amidst the clamor, he figured out the whole story and became even more furious. On one hand, he swore that Jin Zixuan would die by his hand someday; on the other, he had people drag out that Female Cultivator. After a confrontation, the truth came out. Jin Zixuan stiffened completely. When Wei Wuxian cursed him again, his face turned ashen, and he didn't retaliate with a single word, nor did he fight back when hit. If Jiang Anli hadn't later taken his hand, and Jiang Cheng and Jin Guangshan hadn't returned and pulled Wei Wuxian away, Jin Zixuan probably wouldn't have been able to participate in the Hundred Phoenix Hunt to this day.

Later, although Jiang Anli continued to stay in Langya to help, she only did her own work properly. Not only did she never send soup to Jin Zixuan again, she didn't even look him in the eye. Not long after, the Langya crisis was resolved, and Wei Wuxian and Jiang Cheng took her back to Yunmeng. On the contrary, Jin Zixuan, whether out of a guilty conscience or having been severely scolded by Madam Jin, gradually began to ask more and more about Jiang Anli after the Sun-Striking Campaign.

Most outsiders who knew about this matter said it was just a misunderstanding, and what did it matter once it was cleared up? But Wei Wuxian would never think that way. He detested Jin Zixuan—this self-important Prince of the Realm, this flashy Golden Peacock, this blind fool who only judged by appearances. He simply didn't believe that a narcissist like Jin Zixuan would recognize his own mistake. His sudden interest in Jiang Anli was probably just because Madam Jin had pushed and scolded him too hard, forcing him to reluctantly complete the task.

But dislike was one thing; to avoid making things difficult for Jiang Anli, Wei Wuxian now had no choice but to stay hidden. Lan Wangji glanced at him sideways, seeming puzzled, but Wei Wuxian had no time to explain. He just pressed a finger to his lips in a shushing gesture and continued watching. A pair of pale eyes lingered on those moist, full lips for a moment before shifting away.

Over there, Jin Zixuan pushed aside the grass, revealing the corpse of a thick, sturdy snake monster. He bent over for a moment and said, "Dead."

Jiang Anli nodded.

Jin Zixuan said, "Measuring Snake."

Jiang Anli said, "What?"

Jin Zixuan said, "A monster passed down from the southern barbarian lands. It just stands up suddenly when it encounters a person, then tries to see who's longer. If it's longer than the person, it swallows them. Not a big deal, just looks scary."

Jiang Anli seemed not to understand why he was suddenly explaining these things to her. Logically, she should say a couple of polite phrases like 'Young Master Jin is so knowledgeable' or 'Young Master Jin is so calm and composed.' However, what he had just said was extremely basic common knowledge, purely making conversation for the sake of it. Such obviously hypocritical flattery, probably only Jin Guangyao could say without batting an eye. Jiang Anli could only nod again. Wei Wuxian guessed she'd probably been nodding all the way here.

What followed was a stretch of silence. The awkward atmosphere seeped through the grass, hitting the faces of the two people hiding behind the bushes. After a long while, Jin Zixuan finally started leading Jiang Anli back. Yet as he walked, he was still saying, "This particular Measuring Snake has scales attached to its skin, and its fangs are longer than its jaw. It should be a variant. Ordinary people would have a hard time dealing with it; regular arrows wouldn't pierce this layer of scales."

He paused, then added in a tone that pretended not to care, "But it's still not a big deal. None of the prey in this Hundred Clans Hunt are any good. They couldn't hurt us Lanling people at all."

Hearing those last two sentences, that flavor of arrogant pride surged up again. Wei Wuxian felt displeased, but then he saw Lan Wangji beside him staring expressionlessly at Jin Zixuan. Wei Wuxian felt slightly strange. Following his gaze, he was immediately speechless, thinking, 'Since when did that bastard Jin Zixuan walk with his same hand and foot?!'

Jiang Anli said, "It's best if the hunt doesn't hurt anyone."

Jin Zixuan said, "What value is there in prey that doesn't hurt people? If you go to the Lanling Jin Sect's private hunting grounds, you can see many uncommon prey."

Wei Wuxian inwardly sneered: Who wants to go to your family's hunting grounds!

Who knew, Jin Zixuan even went ahead and made a decision on his own, saying, "I happen to be free next month. I can take you."

Jiang Anli said softly, "Thank you for your kindness, Young Master Jin. But there's no need to trouble yourself."

Jin Zixuan was taken aback and blurted out, "Why?"

How could you even answer a question like 'why'? Jiang Anli seemed uneasy and lowered her head.

Jin Zixuan said, "You don't like watching hunts?"

Jiang Anli nodded. Jin Zixuan said, "Then why did you come this time?"

If Madam Jin hadn't strongly insisted, Jiang Anli definitely wouldn't have come. But how could she say that out loud?

Seeing Jiang Anli silent, Jin Zixuan's face flushed red then pale, extremely ugly. After holding it in for a long moment, he forced out a stiff sentence: "Is it that you don't like watching hunts, or that you don't want to be with me?"

Jiang Anli said quietly, "It's not..."

Wei Wuxian knew she was afraid that Jin Zixuan had invited her because of Madam Jin's wishes, but that he didn't truly want to in his heart, and she didn't want to force him. But how would Jin Zixuan know any of this? He only knew he'd never felt so humiliated in his life—not only was it the first time he'd ever been rejected by a girl, it was the first time he'd ever invited a girl and been rejected. A surge of fury rushed straight to his brow. After a long moment, he suddenly gave a cold laugh and said, 'Fine.'

Jiang Anli said, "I'm sorry."

Jin Zixuan said coldly, "What do you have to be sorry about? Think whatever you want. It wasn't like I wanted to invite you anyway. If you're unwilling, forget it."

Wei Wuxian's blood rushed straight to his forehead. He originally wanted to charge out immediately and fight Jin Zixuan again, but then it occurred to him that it might be good for his shijie to see this guy's true colors, to despise him utterly and never think of him again. So he suppressed his anger, wanting to endure a little longer. Jiang Anli's lips trembled, but she didn't say anything. She bowed slightly to Jin Zixuan and said quietly, "Excuse me."

She turned and left, walking back silently alone. Jin Zixuan stood coldly for a while, looking in another direction. After a moment, he suddenly said, "Stop!"

But Jiang Anli didn't turn around. Jin Zixuan grew even angrier. He took three steps forward to grab her hand, but before his eyes, a black shadow flashed. Before he could see clearly, he took a palm strike to the chest. Jin Zixuan swung his sword and retreated several steps. Focusing his gaze, he said angrily, "Wei Wuxian, why is it you again!"

Wei Wuxian blocked in front of Jiang Anli and said furiously, "I haven't even said it yet, why is it you again?!"

Jin Zixuan said, "Attacking for no reason, are you insane!"

Wei Wuxian sent a palm strike flying. "I'm hitting you precisely! What do you mean 'for no reason'? What were you trying to do, grabbing my shijie out of shame and anger?"

Jin Zixuan dodged and returned a sword strike. "If I didn't grab her, was I supposed to let her wander alone in the mountains?!"

But this sword glare was deflected by another, shooting straight up into the sky. Jin Zixuan saw the newcomer and said in astonishment, "Hanguang-jun?"

Lan Wangji sheathed Bichen Sword and stood between the three of them, maintaining silence. Wei Wuxian was about to step forward when Jiang Anli grabbed him and said, "A-Xian!..."

At the same time, a clamor of chaotic footsteps approached. A large, bustling crowd surged into this patch of forest. The person at the front said, "What's going on!"

It turned out that the sword glares from Lan Wangji and Jin Zixuan had both shot up into the sky, alarming the nearby cultivators. They saw at a glance that two people were fighting and hurried over together, just in time to see the strange standoff between the four people in the forest. As they say, enemies cross paths on a narrow road. The person at the front was none other than Jin Zixun. He said, 'Zixuan, is that Wei guy causing trouble for you again?!'

Jin Zixuan said, "It's none of your business, stay out of it for now!" Seeing Wei Wuxian pulling Jiang Anli to leave again, he said, "Stop!"

Wei Wuxian said, "You really want to fight? Fine!"

Jin Zixun said, "Wei, you've targeted Zixuan again and again. What exactly do you mean by this?"

Wei Wuxian glanced at him and said, "Who are you?"

Jin Zixun was stunned, then immediately furious. "You actually don't know who I am?!"

Wei Wuxian said, strangely, "Why should I know who you are?"

At the beginning of the Sun-Striking Campaign, Jin Zixun had been stuck in the rear due to injury, so he hadn't personally witnessed Wei Wuxian's performance on the front lines. He mostly heard rumors and dismissed them as exaggerated. And just now, Wei Wuxian had used a whistle to summon the evil creatures in the mountains, calling away several Malevolent Corpses that their group had almost hunted, causing them to waste their effort, which already displeased him. Now Wei Wuxian was asking him who he was to his face, which made him feel an inexplicable sense of resentment: he recognized Wei Wuxian, but Wei Wuxian actually dared not recognize him, dared to ask him who he was in public. It felt like he'd lost a lot of face, and the more he thought about it, the more unhappy he became. He was about to speak when flashes of golden light streaked across the sky—a second wave of people had arrived.

This group descended on their swords, landing steadily. The leader was a woman whose features were classically beautiful in an orthodox way, the contours of her face faintly carrying a hint of sternness. When flying on her sword, she was heroic and dashing; when walking slowly, she was dignified and elegant. Jin Zixun said, 'Aunt!'

Jin Zixuan was taken aback and said, 'Mother! Why are you here?' Then he thought—his and Lan Wangji's sword glares had shot up into the sky. Madam Jin, over at the Hunting Observation Terrace, had seen them and naturally would come. He glanced at the several Lanling Jin Sect cultivators who had come with his mother and said, 'Why did you bring so many people? You don't need to interfere with the hunt.'

But Madam Jin spat out, 'Don't flatter yourself. Who said I came looking for you!'

She caught sight of Jiang Anli shrinking behind Wei Wuxian and instantly softened her expression. She went forward, took Jiang Anli's hand, and said gently, "A-Li, why are you like this?"

Jiang Anli said, "Thank you, Madam. I'm fine."

Madam Jin was very sharp. 'Did that dead boy bully you again?'

Jiang Anli hurriedly said, "No."

Jin Zixuan shifted slightly, wanting to speak but stopping. Madam Jin knew her son's temperament all too well. With one guess, she knew what had happened and immediately flew into a rage, scolding her son: 'Jin Zixuan! Do you want to die?! What did you say to me before we came out?!'

Jin Zixuan said, "I!..."

Wei Wuxian said, 'No matter what your son said to you before, Madam Jin, from now on he and my shijie can just go their separate ways!'

He was furious, and his words weren't very polite. Fortunately, Madam Jin was only focused on comforting Jiang Anli and didn't dwell on it. Who knew that while she didn't care, someone else seized the opportunity to make a scene. Jin Zixun shouted, 'Wei Wuxian, my aunt is your elder. Isn't speaking like that a bit too arrogant?'

The others felt this was reasonable and chimed in one after another in agreement with Madam Jin. Wei Wuxian said, 'I'm not targeting Madam Jin. Your cousin has repeatedly spoken ill of my shijie. If the Yunmeng Jiang Clan could still tolerate that, we'd be unworthy of being called a prominent clan! Where is the arrogance?'

Jin Zixun sneered. "Where is the arrogance? Where aren't you arrogant? On this great day of the Hundred Clans Hunt, you've certainly made quite a spectacle, haven't you? You've taken thirty percent of the prey all by yourself. Do you feel very proud?"

Lan Wangji tilted his head slightly and said, "Thirty percent of the prey?"

Although the hundred or so people who had come with Jin Zixun all wore deeply resentful expressions, seeing that Lan Wangji—who was widely rumored to have an extremely poor relationship with Wei Wuxian—spoke up, seeming to inquire, someone immediately said, unable to wait, 'Hanguang-jun, you don't know yet, do you? Just now, while we were hunting in Hundred Phoenix Mountain, we searched for a long time only to find there wasn't a single Malevolent Corpse or vengeful spirit, no Malevolent Qi left in the hunting grounds!'

"We sent someone to ask Lianfang-zun over at the Hunting Observation Terrace and found out that less than half an hour after the hunt began, a flute sound came from Hundred Phoenix Mountain. Then, almost all the Malevolent Corpses and vengeful spirits, one after another, walked over to the Yunmeng Jiang Clan's camp on their own and surrendered!"

"Of the three major categories of prey in Hundred Phoenix Mountain, only the demon and monster categories are left now..."

"As for the ghost category, they've all been summoned away by Wei Wuxian alone..."

Jin Zixun said, "You care nothing for others, only for yourself. Isn't that arrogant enough?"

Wei Wuxian suddenly understood. So in the end, it was just using this as a pretext. He smiled. "Didn't you say it? What does the opening arrow count for? Let's see real skill on the Night Hunt field."

Jin Zixun let out a "Ha," as if finding it ridiculous. "You rely on nothing but unorthodox demonic methods, not real skill. Just blowing a flute a couple of times—what kind of real skill is that?"

Wei Wuxian said, strangely, "I didn't use any deceitful tricks, so why doesn't it count? You can blow a flute a couple of times too, see if any Malevolent Corpses or vengeful spirits are willing to follow you?"

Jin Zixun said, "You don't follow the rules. That's not much better than deceitful tricks!"

Hearing this, Lan Wangji frowned. Madam Jin seemed to only now notice the argument over here and said indifferently, 'Zixun, that's enough.'

Wei Wuxian couldn't be bothered to argue with him. He smiled and said, "Fine. I actually don't know what counts as real skill anymore. Please take it out and win against me, let me see it."

If he could win, Jin Zixun wouldn't be feeling so stifled right now. He choked for a moment, growing angrier the more he thought about it, and mocked, "No wonder you don't think you've done anything wrong. It's not the first time Lord Wei has broken the rules. You didn't wear a sword at the last flower banquet or this hunting conference. On such grand occasions, you show no regard for etiquette whatsoever. Where do you put those of us attending alongside you?"

But Wei Wuxian ignored him and turned to Lan Wangji. "Lan Zhan, I forgot to say—thanks for blocking that sword strike for me just now."

Seeing Wei Wuxian acting as if he didn't even regard him, Jin Zixun gritted his teeth and said, "The Yunmeng Jiang Clan's upbringing is nothing more than this!"